Newsletter V2

Cowboy Country

2015 Prices From $3,051 for 8 Days - Tauck Bridges

Stories by Ken Burns It's time to hit the trail for a Western adventure... the ultimate family South Dakota and Wyoming vacation. Tauck takes you behind-the-scenes with filmed narratives by Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan – creators of "The National Parks: America's Best Idea" – who share personal stories of the dreamers, visionaries, and unsung heroes who shaped the preservation of the national parks. The first pioneers had to raft down wilderness rivers, just like you will when you explore the Snake River. You'll have a chance to look for beaver, elk, bison and more as you travel to Yellowstone National Park, where Old Faithful shoots its plume of steam skyward every hour – and you'll be staying in a lodge just steps away! Nothing says "Wild West" like Buffalo Bill and a buckin' bronco rodeo; learn more about them when you spend the night in historic Cody. Live the life of a cowboy by day at the TA Guest Ranch in Wyoming, site of a Johnson County War shootout, and by night with a stay at The Ranch at Ucross, a real dude ranch up in the Bighorn Mountains. Everything is larger than life in the West – especially Crazy Horse Memorial and Mt. Rushmore in South Dakota's Black Hills, where the faces of four former presidents are sculpted in stone – and the purple mountains' majesty of the Tetons, where you'll enjoy a two-night stay in a classic
western lodge!

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To Book Call Tauck or Your Travel Agent

Our knowledgeable travel are here to answer your questions and help book your next trip - call us today at
800-788-7885.

Northbound

Tour begins: 5:45 PM, Jackson Lake Lodge. A transfer is included from Jackson Hole Airport to Jackson Lake Lodge in the heart of Grand Teton National Park. Meet the new friends who will enjoy this Grand Teton, Yellowstone and Wyoming vacation with your family at our welcome reception and dinner.

Lodging

Jackson Lake Lodge

Day2

Raft down the Snake River and explore Jackson and the Tetons

Meals

B, L

Marvel at the mountain majesty of Grand Teton National Park, including sparkling Jenny Lake, before setting off on a rafting adventure* down the Snake River. Along the way, your guide will help you spot the beavers, eagles, elks and other animals that live in the park. Spend some time in the historic town of Jackson and check out some of the fun things to do at Jackson Lake Lodge.

Lodging

Jackson Lake Lodge

Day3

A peek into the story of Grand Teton National Park and a close-up look at Yellowstone

Meals

B, D

During your Cowboy Country travels this morning, you'll have a unique chance to join a park insider for an exclusive peek into the story of Grand Teton National Park and the effort to preserve its diverse environment. Then you'll travel from the Tetons to America's first and most famous national park, spectacular Yellowstone - where your "home away from home" for the next two nights is just steps away from the famous Old Faithful Geyser! Keep an eye out for Yellowstone's diverse wildlife as you explore some of the famous features of the park, whose geologic wonders include two-thirds of all the geysers in the world – with your Tauck Director. Have dinner at the lodge and participate in an optional Ranger program if you wish.

Lodging

Old Faithful Inn

Day4

Mud pots and more on a perfect day in Yellowstone

Meals

B, L, D

Start your day in remarkable Yellowstone National Park with an expert from The Institute of the Yellowstone Association who share information about the park's abundant wildlife; Yellowstone protects threatened or endangered species including the gray wolf, whooping crane, lynx, grizzly bear and bald eagle. Have a picnic lunch, and see some of the 10,000 hot springs within the park, as well as bubbling pools of mud and volcanic calderas with a local park guide; and, a short distance from your lodge, watch mighty Old Faithful shoot its plume of steam high into the air just about every hour – a highlight of any Wyoming vacation!

Lodging

Old Faithful Inn

Day5

Learn about Buffalo Bill's West and go to a rodeo in Cody

Meals

B, D

Say goodbye to Yellowstone and continue your Wyoming vacation to the historic town of Cody, founded in part by the famous "Buffalo Bill" Cody, from whom the town got its name. Glimpse the history and culture of the heyday of the American West at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, whose five connected museums each tell a different side of the story, focusing on the Plains Indians, Western art, firearms, natural
history and the life and career of "Buffalo Bill" Cody himself (at the Buffalo Bill Museum, opened in 2012). Have a western-style dinner and then thrill to bucking broncos, steer wrestlers, calf ropers and barrel riders at a real western rodeo tonight in Cody, often called the "rodeo capital of the world."

Lodging

Holiday Inn® Cody at Buffalo Bill Village

Day6

The Bighorn Mountains and a double helping of cowboy life down on the ranch

Meals

B, L, D

Journey through Wyoming's Bighorn Mountains today, past deep
canyons, vast grasslands, and blankets of wildflowers en route to one of the highlights of your Wyoming vacation – a double dose of Western ranch life that your family will love! First, feel the spirit of Cowboy Country during an authentic ranch experience – including a cookhouse lunch, a horseback ride*, a horse whisperer and a roping demonstration – at the TA Guest Ranch in Buffalo, Wyoming. A real working cattle ranch, the TA Ranch was the site of a famous siege and shootout during the infamous "Johnson County War" in 1892; you can still see the old gunshot holes in the ranch's original horse barn! Later, continue on to an overnight and dinner at your leisure at yet another real Wyoming ranch – the Ranch at Ucross – topping the night off with an old-fashioned campfire complete with stories and s'mores!

Lodging

The Ranch at Ucross

Day7

A tale of two carvings in the Black Hills – Crazy Horse and Mount Rushmore

Meals

B, L, D

Depart the Ranch at Ucross and Wyoming and head for the Black Hills of South Dakota. Look up in wonder at the Crazy Horse Memorial, where you'll view the work in progress as artisans carve the likeness of the famous Lakota warrior out of the mountain; when completed, it will be the largest rock sculpture in the world. Then it's on to view the towering stone portraits of four American presidents at Mount Rushmore, one of the must-see landmark sights in the U.S., and an overnight at the K Bar S Lodge. Join us for a fun farewell dinner this evening, where you'll share delightful memories of your family's South Dakota and Wyoming vacation in Cowboy Country.

Lodging

K Bar S Lodge

Day8

Journey Home

Meals

B

Tour ends: Rapid City. Fly home anytime; a transfer is included from K Bar S Lodge to Rapid City Regional Airport. Allow a minimum of two hours for flight check-in.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

Children 12 and under Discount $200
Children under 18 must be booked in a room with at least one adult. Quad accommodations are not available for four adults. Prices for triple and quad accommodations are based upon use of two double beds in each room. Hotels are renowned for their locations, but may not compare to facilities and services found in more populated areas.

Recommended age: 8+; rafting is available for children 6 and older.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

Tauck Value Includes

A cowboy-sized helping of Wyoming ranch life – with a cookhouse lunch, horseback ride, horse whisperer and roping demonstration at the TA Guest Ranch, and a campfire and overnight at the Ranch at Ucross

Air Travel & Services

Overnight Accommodations

It's hard to sit still here. Everywhere you look, wilderness beckons. See the spectacular Tetons rising out of the sky above the Snake River from the huge picture windows 60 feet tall in the main lodge. Gaze across the shimmering lake and spy glimpses of wildlife ambling near the shore as you sit down to eat in the Mural Room. Or peer through your handy binoculars – a must for "up-close" viewing of mountain slopes dotted with wildflowers – while you are enjoying the only swimming pool in Grand Teton National Park. Set in the heart of the park, the Lodge offers all kinds of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, float trips and boat excursions. So when you're not off exploring postcard-perfect sights near the Lodge like Jenny Lake and the wildlife-rich Snake River with Tauck, you're free to enjoy your stay as you like.

Nights 3 - 4
:
Old Faithful Inn
-
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

In 1987 the Old Faithful Inn was designated a National Historic Landmark because it was "the first building in a National Park constructed in an architectural style harmonious with the grandeur of the surrounding landscape". Its seven-story-high log lobby is unique in American architecture. Created with gnarled logs and rough-sawn wood from the Northern Pacific Railroad, it has a sense of place as identifiable as the park itself. But that's not the only thing special about this 100+-year-old hotel. It is also steps from the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser, where you can count on the clockwork timing of its plume of steam that soars skyward every hour. When you are not outside marveling at this natural wonder, you can enjoy the Inn's immense lobby and huge stone fireplace, comfortable rooms and a great restaurant.

Night 5
:
Holiday Inn® Cody at Buffalo Bill Village
-
Cody, Wyoming

Did you know that more than 93% of all American travelers have stayed in a Holiday Inn? That's because they know they can find friendly services, comfortable accommodations, and welcome amenities at this well-known hotel chain. The Holiday Inn® Cody at Buffalo Bill Village is no exception. It’s just blocks away from the Buffalo Bill Historical Center and close to the Cody Nite Rodeo and Dan Miller’s Music Revue, offering you one of the best locations in this historic "Old West" town. There’s an outdoor swimming pool and a small fitness facility when you’re ready to wind down after a busy day and an on-site laundromat available to guests. The Bottoms Up Lounge is a great place to relax after a busy day.

Night 6
:
The Ranch at Ucross
-
Ucross, Wyoming

No trip to the great American West would be complete without a visit to a real dude ranch. Days start with a cowboy breakfast spread, and end with a dinner buffet that has everything from grilled trout to Wyoming beef and tender chicken – with an apple pie that can't be beat. Lodging accommodations vary and feature views of horses grazing in the back pasture, or sage-covered hills well suited for a trail ride. There are so many activities here you'll never run out of things to do. You can choose to ride a horse or splash in the pool. Play tennis, soccer or challenge your traveling companions to a game of horseshoes. Board games make indoor time fun too. And believe it or not, there is one TV at the ranch but according to the ranch hands, there's hardly ever a kid in front of it!

Night 7
:
K Bar S Lodge
-
Keystone, South Dakota

Set in the unspoiled beauty of the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, the K Bar S Lodge has views of presidents Washington and Jefferson at Mount Rushmore from the deck just outside its impressive lobby. Comfortable guest rooms feature Plush Serta® mattresses, coffee maker, hair dryer, free Internet access, 27" color TV with cable channels and HBO, and iron and ironing board. There are complimentary laundry facilities in each building. With its dining rated as "Supplier of the Year" by the National Tour Association, you can anticipate a great meal in the indoor dining room or the Gazebo.

Extend Your Trip

Many Tauck travelers prefer arriving at their destination a day before
their Tauck journey begins, or often extend a stay at the end of their
trip. As a service, Tauck will make hotel reservations before and after
your journey.

Arrive Early:
Jackson Lake Lodge
- Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

It's hard to sit still here. Everywhere you look, wilderness beckons. See the spectacular Tetons rising out of the sky above the Snake River from the huge picture windows 60 feet tall in the main lodge. Gaze across the shimmering lake and spy glimpses of wildlife ambling near the shore as you sit down to eat in the Mural Room. Or peer through your handy binoculars – a must for "up-close" viewing of mountain slopes dotted with wildflowers – while you are enjoying the only swimming pool in Grand Teton National Park. Set in the heart of the park, the Lodge offers all kinds of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, float trips and boat excursions. So when you're not off exploring postcard-perfect sights near the Lodge like Jenny Lake and the wildlife-rich Snake River with Tauck, you're free to enjoy your stay as you like.

Stay Later:
K Bar S Lodge
- Keystone, South Dakota

Set in the unspoiled beauty of the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, the K Bar S Lodge has views of presidents Washington and Jefferson at Mount Rushmore from the deck just outside its impressive lobby. Comfortable guest rooms feature Plush Serta® mattresses, coffee maker, hair dryer, free Internet access, 27" color TV with cable channels and HBO, and iron and ironing board. There are complimentary laundry facilities in each building. With its dining rated as "Supplier of the Year" by the National Tour Association, you can anticipate a great meal in the indoor dining room or the Gazebo.

Before You Go

There are bound to be questions when travelling. Information on everything from weather to internet connections can be found below.

Inclusive Prices

Tour Prices

Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, motor coach transportation, admissions, entertainment, special dinners, sightseeing, porterage, and the services of hotel and restaurant staff, local guides and drivers and the Tauck Director are included. Transportation from the Jackson Hole Airport to Jackson Lake Lodge is included, regardless of the time you check in to the hotel, provided you have furnished us with accurate flight arrival information at least three weeks before the start of the tour. Transportation from K Bar S Lodge to Rapid City Regional Airport is also included when you check out of the hotel. Transportation to and from airports may be shared with other Tauck guests.

Child Pricing

Children less than 18 years of age must be booked in a room with at least one adult; exceptions may be granted under certain circumstances with parental consent. Quadruple accommodations are not available for four persons 18 and older. To qualify for a child discount, the child’s birth date must be provided at time of booking. Tauck Travel Protection is not discounted for children.

Hotel Accommodations

The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triple and quadruple accommodations are generally two-bedded rooms with a rollaway cot where available and are not recommended for comfort. Please note that we cannot guarantee adjacent, adjoining or connecting rooms. We will do all that we can to secure rooms next to one another or connecting when possible. A hotel may consider “adjacent” to be across the hall. For safety and security purposes, at time of booking, room accommodations for children under 18 year of age must be made in the same room as a an accompanying adult; exceptions may be granted under certain circumstances with parental consent.

Tauck Director

Cowboy Country is conducted by a Tauck Director who will remain with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Director is a professional, fully trained employee of Tauck.

Meals

Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary. Whenever possible, meals are choice of menu with the exception of an occasional group function or buffet necessary to provide adequate service at times of peak demand.

Gratuities Included

All appropriate gratuities for the hotel and restaurant staffs, local guides and drivers, and the Tauck Director are included.

Luggage Handling and Restrictions

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

No Options Sold

Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.

Travel Documents Required

Cowboy Country begins and ends in the U.S.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling to the U.S., you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department’s Internet site by clicking here.

If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures in the Additional Information section to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are a citizen of the U.S. or Canada who travels frequently between the two countries, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

Not Included

Transportation

Transportation to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included.

Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours

To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. Airport transfers are included for these bookings as detailed in the Inclusive Prices section above. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult Extend Your Trip in the Accommodations section above on this webpage and discuss it with your reservations sales consultant or travel agent when you book your tour.

Luggage Responsibility

Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section below on this webpage for more information.

Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:

Do not pack any vital medications or valuables in your checked luggage

Confirm that your luggage is checked and tagged to your final destination at airport check-in

Place your luggage claim tags in a secure place for your flight

File a claim for any missing luggage immediately before leaving the baggage claim area

Secure a case number and contact information for follow-up communications

Make certain that the airline has your onward itinerary

Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.

Personal Expenses

Personal expenses such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual train and airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.

Preparing to Go

Journey Start and End Times

Journey Start and End Times are provided at the time of booking. The tour begins at 5:45 PM to the Jackson Lake Lodge on the first day of the tour. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs in order to join the tour on time. The tour ends upon check out at the K Bar S Lodge on the last day of the tour. Transportation will be provided to the airport at any time provided you have furnished us with accurate flight information. Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.

Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility

We pledge to make every effort to operate all tours as advertised. We reserve the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by us. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.

Holiday and Museum Closures

Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many religious, state and civic holidays locally observed.You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.

Photography On Tour

Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.

Membership

Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any person who is abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.

ATM and Credit Cards

We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on your journey to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be “suspicious” charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Cell Phone Usage

We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that guests refrain from cell phone usage during motor coach travel, group functions, sightseeing and when the Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There are usually many opportunities to make or receive calls at times when it does not affect others.

Health and Activity

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion. There are no elevators at The Ranch at Ucross or at the Holiday Inn Cody, and while none of the planned activities are especially strenuous or difficult, we urge caution when engaging in activities at high elevations. If you have a heart condition or lung ailment, please consult your physician before you book your trip.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we’re unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Please advise your Tauck Director on tour if you or the children traveling with you have any serious allergies. Also, adults may want to bring along children's aspirin or medicines as a precaution, as access to these may be limited

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

If you are a resident of another country traveling to or within the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to the U.S. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

Additional Information

Travel With Children

Age Recommendations – Children 3 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck Bridges journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, for each itinerary we have a minimum recommended age to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. We recommend that children be 8 years of age or older to fully participate in all activities planned for this tour. Please note that the raft trip is restricted to children who are 6 years of age or older and the horse back riding to children 7 year of age or older. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.

Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.

Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.

Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel

If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a notarized note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.

If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.

Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment

In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.

We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.

Airline Security Measures

If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver’s license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.

If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.

For more information on the TSA's requirements, please visit their website by clicking here.

If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.

Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.

What to Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we’ve partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is always advisable. As the climate is cooler at high elevations, we also suggest you bring a heavy sweater. And, of course, western-style boots and clothing are a perfect fit in Cowboy Country.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor’s prescription (or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you), a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

The National Park Lodges do not have televisions or phones, so bring along a good book to read!

On this tour, you may have a unique opportunity to volunteer with National Park experts on a special service project. If you choose to participate in this program at Yellowstone, we suggest you pack clothes appropriate for working outdoors.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your family adventure in Cowboy Country:

Each child 17 and under will be sent a complimentary backpack from Tauck Bridges! If the child resides in the continental United States, the backpack will be sent to his or her home approximately two weeks prior to the tour departure date. If the child resides outside of the continental U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska, the backpack will be waiting on arrival at the first hotel on your itinerary.

Upon Arrival...

Air Conditioning

The Jackson Lake Lodge and the Old Faithful Inn are not air-conditioned; the other hotels on this tour and the motor coaches are air-conditioned.

Currency and Exchange Rates

The U.S. dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widely dispersed and credit cards and travelers’ checks are widely accepted. Travelers’ checks should be taken in U.S. dollars to avoid hassles. Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

To obtain the most current exchange rate, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to the Internet website oanda.com by clicking here.

Customs and Tax-Free Shopping

If you are not a resident of the United States, you are normally entitled to a duty-free exemption of $100 USD on items that you bring into the U.S. To find out more information on what information must be provided to U.S. Customs and Border Control (CBP) upon entry, please refer to the CBP internet website by clicking here. You should also refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.

The individual states within the U.S. levy sales taxes on consumer goods and services. There is no federal tax similar to the Value Added Tax (VAT) used in other countries that would permit non-residents to obtain refunds of the sales taxes levied by each state.

Electrical Current

The electrical current in the U.S. is 110 V, 60 Hz, AC, which accommodates standard U.S. plugs having either two flat pins or two flat pins and a round grounding pin. If you bring electric devices that are not compatible with this system you may need to bring the appropriate adapters and converters.

Internet Access

Complimentary basic Internet where available in hotel rooms; service levels are not guaranteed.

Time Zones

All the areas visited on this journey are located in the Mountain Time Zone and are 7 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). Generally, from early March to early November, these areas switch to Daylight Savings Time and are 6 hours behind. To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the timeanddate.com by clicking here.

Elevation

You will spend two nights at an altitude of 6,800 ft (2,073 m) at Jackson Lake Lodge and two nights at 7,800 ft (2,377 m) in Yellowstone National Park.

Weather

The high temperatures in the summer months average 70 to 80°F (21 to 27°C) and the lows average 40 to 50°F (4 to 10°C). Rainfall is moderate, approximately 1.4 in (35.5 mm) per summer month in Jackson and 3.0 in (76.2 mm) in Keystone. The overnight temperatures can drop to the freezing point even during the summer at the highest elevations.To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.

Temperature

Jackson

Rapid City

Wyoming, U.S.

South Dakota, U.S.

Fahrenheit

Celsius

Fahrenheit

Celsius

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

High

Low

January

25

1

-4

-17

36

7

2

-14

February

31

3

-1

-16

40

11

4

-12

March

40

12

4

-11

45

18

7

-8

April

49

22

9

-6

53

26

12

-3

May

61

31

16

-1

63

36

17

2

June

71

37

22

3

74

44

23

7

July

79

42

26

6

80

49

27

9

August

78

41

26

5

79

47

26

8

September

69

34

21

1

70

36

21

2

October

55

25

13

-4

58

27

14

-3

November

37

14

3

-10

44

16

7

-9

December

26

2

-3

-17

37

9

3

-13

Rainfall

Jackson

Rapid City

Wyoming, U.S.

South Dakota, U.S.

Inches

Millimeters

Inches

Millimeters

January

2.6

65

0.3

8

February

2.1

54

0.5

13

March

1.7

42

1.1

27

April

1.4

36

2.4

60

May

2.0

51

3.6

92

June

1.7

43

3.6

92

July

1.4

36

3.4

86

August

1.4

36

2.1

54

September

1.3

34

1.5

37

October

1.3

32

1.5

38

November

2.2

56

0.7

18

December

2.5

62

0.4

10

Book This Trip

Have Information Ready

To help expedite your booking, please have the following information ready before you call us:

Tour Name and Departure Date Desired

Traveler Name(s): Please have first and last names as they appear on the passport or driver’s license.

Traveler’s Address(es)

Traveler’s Phone Number(s)

Emergency Contact Information: This would be a relative or friend whom we could contact during the tour in the event of an emergency. Please provide their name and phone number(s).

Interest in purchasing Tauck’s Travel Protection Product (see below).

Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends

Interest in our specially negotiated airfares.

For Reservations Call

For reservations, call 800-788-7885 or contact your travel agent to book today!

Deposit Date

The Deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking. Your deposit is $350 per person.

Special Requests

Special RequestsWe will be happy to advise hotels of any special requests, provided we receive them at time of booking. We regret that requests cannot be guaranteed.

Final Payment

Final Payment is due at Tauck’s Norwalk, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookingswithout full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.

Final Documents

Final Documents, which may include airline tickets, when applicable, are sent by first class mail upon receipt of final payment. They include joining instructions, hotel lists, tour itinerary, clothing suggestions, luggage tags and other pertinent information. We recommend overnight mailing service for any reservation that is made within 30 days of the tour departure date to ensure timely delivery. The additional expense will be added to your tour cost.

Tauck Travel Protection Product / If You Have To Cancel

Tauck’s Guest Protection

Guests booking a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing cancellation protection from Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck’s Travel Protection Plan is available to all travelers, with the exception of residents of Puerto Rico.

Under Tauck’s all-inclusive Guest Protection, you can cancel your tour for any covered reason up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment. The following conditions apply:

Section I Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck: Should you have to cancel your journey for any reason, Tauck’s Cancellation Waiver reduces the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your journey departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

Section II – Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company. Should you have to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, death or other covered reason, any cancellation or airline penalties not refunded by Tauck under Section I’s Cancellation Waiver would be reimbursable under Section II. This Protection also provides 24-hour emergency assistance services as well as:

Trip Delay – Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.

Medical Expense – Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip.

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Cost is not refundable under any circumstances. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Guests choosing not to purchase Tauck’s Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:

60 days or more before departure
$350.00 per person

59-8 days before departure
$600.00 per person

7-1 days before departure
$900.00 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Tour Interruption Fees – If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund of land tour costs if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less $40 per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation – A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

Air Services - Domestic

Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors).

Traveler Reviews - Cowboy Country

J Nakagawa

Terrific all around

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:June 2014

We wanted to go somewhere as a family (three generations and seven of us) and chose this tour. I had heard great things about Tauck and they did not disappoint. I've been on land tours before, but this one was the best by far. Our tour guide, John, kept us all organized and we had fun too - what a challenge! I am looking forward to another.

Most Memorable Moment:

A pick-up soccer game where all the kids got involved. For not knowing each other, there was a camaraderie that developed that was surprising. One of my nephews (14 years old) is a bit shy with others, but he was soon in the thick of things. I watched as kids who had very little in common hung out together and bonded over the course of a week.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Geri

Tetons - a great experience for everyone

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:July 2012

Tetons are sensational - a visual highlight for all ages. 10 of us from 70 to 5 yrs had a great time. Wonderful learning experience for the kids to appreciate our Nat'l Parks. Kids banded together - adults got a break. Great tour guide & naturalists at parks engaged kids. Lodges were terrific as well as rodeo, but food in SD was awful.

Most Memorable Moment:

The float trip along the Snake River was visually stunning and enjoyable.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

HDykes

Perfect for Teenage Grandchildren

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:August 2013

Our two grandchildren loved the trip and it was geared for them. Our granddaughter loved Sommer, our tour director. She kept the kids busy, even on the bus, with challenges and stories.
I would recommend this trip highly for grandparents and parents with children ages 7-17.

Most Memorable Moment:

Loved seeing the kids participate in the rodeo!

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

dbrociner

Great time in Cowboy Country

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:August 2012

We went hoping to show our kids, ages 11 & 8, the beauty of the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone and the history of Mt. Rushmore. We also wanted a Bridges vacation because we hoped the kids would have fun with other kids along the way. Thanks to our Tauck tour guide Sommer and a great group of other guests our hopes were realized. A great trip!

Most Memorable Moment:

The night spent at the U Cross ranch was great because we had all gotten to know each other and the kids had a blast. Also, the lighting ceremony at Mt. Rushmore is something that every American should get the chance to see, moving and memorable.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

kdander

Incredible experience!

Overall Rating:

12345

Travel Date:June 2012

Our family of five (kids ages 14, 12, and 8) absolutely loved this trip! We gained so much more insight into the attractions with Tauck than we would have on our own. Every minute of our vacation was inspirational, educational, fun-filled and action-packed! We all made new friends, and we loved our tour director Sommer and driver Verna!

Most Memorable Moment:

Our family loved walking the Morning Glory trail in Yellowstone. We saw a coyote and her 2 pups along the route, and also felt the earth shake below us at the Black Sand Pond. There is nothing like waking up in Yellowstone and watching Old Faithful erupt right outside your window.

Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely

Packing Tips

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we’ve partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is always advisable. As the climate is cooler at high elevations, we also suggest you bring a heavy sweater. And, of course, western-style boots and clothing are a perfect fit in Cowboy Country.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor’s prescription (or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you), a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

The National Park Lodges do not have televisions or phones, so bring along a good book to read!

On this tour, you may have a unique opportunity to volunteer with National Park experts on a special service project. If you choose to participate in this program at Yellowstone, we suggest you pack clothes appropriate for working outdoors.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your family adventure in Cowboy Country:

Each child 17 and under will be sent a complimentary backpack from Tauck Bridges! If the child resides in the continental United States, the backpack will be sent to his or her home approximately two weeks prior to the tour departure date. If the child resides outside of the continental U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska, the backpack will be waiting on arrival at the first hotel on your itinerary.

Get your custom trip planner

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Packing is easier with necessaryGear

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – and depending on the destination, what to pack might include footwear, sunglasses, binoculars, hats, etc. We've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Just click the link below and check out all of the great suggestions to make what you pack that much easier!

Stories by Ken Burns

Tauck On-tour Exclusive! Filmed narratives by Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan share personal stories of the passionate struggle to create America's – and the world's – first national park, Yellowstone, set aside "for the benefit and enjoyment of the people." Tauck takes you behind-the-scenes with commentary by the creators of "The National Parks: America's Best Idea."